Rummenigge believes Kane towers above the other 29 nominees because of his individual performance, goals, and trophies.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Former German striker Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has waded into the discussion on who will win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, saying England’s Three Lions forward Harry Kane “has the edge”.
The ex-chairman of Bayern Munich’s executive board made this known on Thursday, October 8, 2026, during an interview with the German sports platform Ran Sport (Ran).
The 30-man Ballon d’Or shortlist for the 2026 Men’s award features prominent players from top global clubs and national teams, including Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, Rodri, and Vinícius Júnior, among others.
According to Rummenigge, who was the last footballer from the German club to win the prestigious individual prize, Kane has an advantage over the other 29 nominees this year.
ALSO READ: Infantino hails Messi after retiring from international football, says ‘Good luck legend’
While expressing hope that Kane can end the Bavarians’ wait to have another winner, he attributed the England captain’s edge to his individual performance, goals, and trophies.
“I was the last Bayern player to win the award, so I would like to see another Bayern player win it now,” Rummenigge said.
He added: “Harry Kane has the edge there – his goals and his trophies speak for themselves.”
Meanwhile, this year’s Ballon d’Or winner will be announced on October 26.
